Men’s mental health initiatives, such as the “He.” event series founded by Cassandra Hogan, are shifting the approach to suicide prevention by prioritizing peer-to-peer storytelling over traditional clinical models. According to the 2025 The Real Face of Men’s Health in New Zealand report by Movember, suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 35 in Aotearoa, with men accounting for three out of every four recorded suicides.
The Shift Toward Peer-Led Support Networks
The rise of community-driven platforms marks a departure from conventional support systems. Cassandra Hogan, a life and business coach with a background in psychology, launched the “He.” series in 2023 after identifying a lack of spaces where men could discuss lived experiences. By hosting events at venues like the Mount Maunganui Surf Lifesaving Club, the initiative provides an environment where men hear from relatable speakers rather than just professional clinicians.
Craig Bulloch, co-founder of the Hamilton-based organization Mates Matter, notes that these gatherings address the “silent isolation” caused by cultural pressures to remain stoic. Bulloch, who experienced personal crisis following a business failure and relationship breakdown, emphasizes that hearing stories from “people next to me” is more impactful than advice from public figures. Mates Matter now partners with “He.” to provide regional resources, focusing on the belief that vulnerability is a strength rather than a weakness.
Did you know?
According to Movember’s 2025 report, men represent 75% of all suicides in New Zealand. Community-led initiatives are increasingly targeting this demographic by creating non-clinical, relaxed settings for open conversation.
Scaling Community Mental Health Initiatives
What began as a one-off event has expanded into a broader movement. Hogan has since launched “She.” to support women and is currently developing specialized programming for specific sectors, including the construction industry, farmers, and couples. The financial model has also evolved; while early events were self-funded by Hogan, current event profits are directed toward mental health charities.
The long-term objective for these organizers is to institutionalize this support. Hogan aims to transition “He.” into a registered charity capable of funding 12-week cycles of sustained care, such as professional therapy or structured coaching. This reflects a growing trend of programs that connect individuals at public events to formal, ongoing mental health services.
Pro Tips: How to Support Men’s Mental Health
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are peer-led events effective for men?
According to organizers like Cassandra Hogan, men often face a “huge block” when attempting to speak about their struggles. Peer-led events remove the perceived stigma of clinical settings, allowing men to relate to the lived experiences of their peers.
What is the primary goal of “He.” and “Mates Matter”?
Both organizations aim to break down the cultural pressure for men to remain fiercely independent. They focus on encouraging men to build support networks where they can voice feelings of shame, guilt, or anxiety before those emotions reach a crisis point.
How can I get involved in local mental health support?
You can look for local community events that prioritize open dialogue, or reach out to organizations like Mates Matter if you are in the Waikato region.
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